rfp-14-0023-charter-application-review-121013

ORLEANS PARISH SCHOOL BOARD PURCHASING DEPARTMENT 3520 General De Gaulle Drive, 5th Floor, Room 5078 New Orleans, Louisiana 70114

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REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS NO. 14-0023 TYPES 1 AND 3 CHARTER APPLICATIONS REVIEW Sealed proposals relative to the above will be received in the Purchasing Department for the Orleans Parish School Board (OPSB) at 3520 General De Gaulle Drive, Fifth Floor Room 5055, New Orleans, Louisiana 70114 until 4:00 P.M. on Tuesday, January 7, 2013.

Specifications and submittal documents may be obtained upon request from the OPSB Purchasing Department in writing, by email (leslie_rey@nops.k12.la.us), by calling (504) 304-5645 or by visiting the web site www.nops.k12.la.us.

The OPSB reserves the right to reject any or all submittals whenever such rejection is in its best interest in accordance with law. The provisions and requirements of this advertisement shall not be waived.

ORLEANS PARISH SCHOOL BOARD BY: Mr. Leslie J. Rey Purchasing/Ancillary Services Director

FIRST INSERTION DATE: SECOND INSERTION DATE: THIRD INSERTION DATE:

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2013 WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2013 FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27, 2013

RFP 14-0023, Types 1 and 3 Charter Applications Review

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ORLEANS PARISH SCHOOL BOARD REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS NO. 14-0023 TYPES 1 AND 3 CHARTER APPLICATION REVIEW ANNOUNCEMENT The Orleans Parish School Board (“OPSB”) hereby gives notice that it is seeking responses from one or more charter application review providers to provide services to the OPSB. SUBMISSION OF QUALIFICATIONS One (1) original and one (1) copy on CD or flash drive, including any required documentation must be received by the OPSB no later than 4:00 p.m. (CST) on Tuesday, January 7, 2013. Each response and accompanying documentation shall be submitted in a sealed envelope addressed as follows: Orleans Parish School Board ATTN: Mr. Leslie J. Rey, Purchasing/Ancillary Services Director Re: RFP 14-0023 Types 1 and 3 Charter Application Review [Submitting Company Name & Return Address] This RFP does not commit the OPSB to award any contract nor to pay any costs incurred in the preparation or delivery of the response. OPSB may ask for additional information from any applicant and/or all applicants as may be necessary or appropriate for purposes of clarification.

Please direct any and all questions to: Orleans Parish School Board ATTN: Mr. Leslie J. Rey, Purchasing/Ancillary Services Director 3520 General DeGaulle Drive, Suite 5055 New Orleans, Louisiana 70114 Phone (504) 304-5645 Fax (504) 309-2879 Email: leslie_rey@opsb.us INTRODUCTION The OPSB (District) is the Authorizer for Type One and Type Three charter schools in Orleans Parish, Louisiana. As required by Louisiana Revised Statute 17:3982 (A)(1)(a)(i), OPSB shall engage in a transparent application review process, and provide an evaluation by an “independent third party with educational, organizational, legal and financial expertise.” The OPSB is therefore issuing this Request for Proposals (RFP) for highly qualified and experienced providers to assist with the development of materials and management of applications for high quality charter school applicants.

RFP 14-0023, Types 1 and 3 Charter Applications Review

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PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS OPSB has issued this RFP for qualified applicants to work in partnership with OPSB administration and Board members to create all documents necessary related to the review of Type 1 and 3 charter school applicants and to manage all stages of the application, interview, evaluation and recommendation stages of the process for 2013.

The successful respondent to this RFP will provide the following items: • Supplementary application materials, based on the Louisiana Department of Education’s Local Charter Request for Application (RFA) template • Recommendation template document • Recommendation reports for each eligible charter application received by OPSB The successful respondent will also provide the following services to support District staff: • • • • •

Orientation to application process for Board members and prospective applicants Tracking and management of all documents submitted pursuant to the application process Recruitment and training of local and national evaluators Completeness check of all applications Management of communications with applicants for completeness findings and requests for supplemental information

Application Evaluation Criteria - collaborate with District staff to develop evaluation criteria, aligned with the RFA packet and any supplementary materials, to be disseminated to applicants for use in developing a high quality application and to evaluators to serve as the standard by which to judge each application.

Evaluation Teams Identify and contract with local and national education/charter school experts to compose teams with educational, financial, and operational expertise to evaluate each application. Provide trainings for evaluation teams on the application and evaluation process and timeline, the evaluation criteria, the mechanics of evaluating an application, the online application system, interview process, and recommendation development.

Due Diligence Collaborate with District staff to develop a due diligence report template, and will contract with national experts to execute due diligence research on experienced charter school operators or education service providers that operate nationally. Advise the OPSB on conducting due diligence reviews of operators with an established record of performance in Louisiana.

Interviews Manage a rigorous capacity interview, to be conducted by the evaluation team, for eligible applicant groups.

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Recommendations Manage the development of Recommendation Reports that evaluation teams will produce for each eligible application. The reports will provide analysis of each section of the proposed plan as well as the applicant’s capacity to execute that plan and launch and operate a high quality school.

RFA Outline - using the criteria specified above, please respond using the outline below: A. Executive Summary (limit 2 pages) B. Timeline for Implementation (limit 1 page) C. Background and Related Experience (limit 2 pages) D. Professional Resources – Staffing (include resumes of proposed project team) E. Project Proposal (limit 2 pages) F. Letters of Reference – (min of two, max. of four) preferably from other public school districts where you have performed similar professional services Indemnity and Insurance A. The Contractor shall indemnify and hold harmless the OPSB, its Board Members, Officers, Staff Directors, etc. for and against any and all losses, damages, and liabilities whatsoever for injury to or death of persons, or loss of or damage to property, including Government property of any kind or nature caused by or arising out of the performance of the work or services required hereunder by the contractor or the officers, employees, or agents of the Contractor.

B.

The Contractor shall, as a minimum, obtain and maintain during the entire period of performance of this contract insurance provided by insurers authorized to transact business in the State of Louisiana, has and maintains a minimum of a “A” rating or better financial size category as shown in the most current AM Best Company ratings the following coverage placements: 1.

Workmen's Compensation and Employees Liability Insurance – Worker’s Compensation insurance limits as required by the Labor Code of the State of Louisiana meeting minimum statutory requirements and Employer’s Liability coverage with a minimum of $500,000. The policy shall include a waiver of subrogation in favor of the District (OPSB).

2.

Comprehensive General Liability/ Professional Liability Insurance – For Standard Contracts, minimum limits of $1,000,000 per occurrence. The policy shall include a waiver of subrogation in favor of the OPSB with an additional insured endorsement. For Architectural & Engineering (A&E) projects, the Contractor shall provide evidence of coverage for Professional Liability and or E&O Liability subject to limits of not less than $1,000,000 with additional insured and/or a waiver of subrogation endorsement in favor of the District (OPSB). The liability insurance shall remain in effect until the end of the Correction Period and at all times after that when the Contractor may be correcting or removing and replacing, defective work.

3.

Motor Vehicle Liability Insurance - Minimum limits of $250,000 per person and

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$500,000 per occurrence for bodily injury liability and $100,000 for property damage liability is required on each vehicle owned, non-owned or hired to be used in conjunction with the contract. The policy shall include a waiver of subrogation in favor of the District (OPSB).

4.

Property, Builder’s Risk Insurance – The Contractor (for repair, construction, fabrication, etc. projects) shall purchase and maintain property insurance, including earth movement and flood, covering work at the site in the full amount of the respective contract and/or changes in contract values due to change orders.

The property insurance shall be “All Risk Builder’s Risk Completed Value Form Insurance or equivalent manuscript policy and shall include the interests of the OSPB, Contractor, Subcontractors and Suppliers, Architect and the Owners and Architect’s consultants as their interest may appear, all of whom shall be named as additional insured’s. The corresponding deductibles, shall be borne by the Contractor & the policy shall also be endorsed to comply with the waiver of subrogation rights in favor of or applicable to the OPSB.

5.

Excess Liability Insurance – The OPSB reserves the right to require this coverage subject to the value of the contract or scope of work required in the contract. If required, the excess liability insurance shall follow the same form and offer the same protections as employer’s liability, general liability and auto liability. It shall also be as broad as the underlying policies of liability. Limits of Excess Liability coverage will be established based on the size and scope of the contract project. Additional insured and/or waiver of subrogation endorsements will be required.

C.

The minimum insurance amounts specified in paragraph B shall not include a deductible.

Notwithstanding, if there is a deductible incorporated into the terms of the insurance policy, then OPSB shall not be liable for the deductible, nor shall it be an allowable cost if paid by the CONTRACTOR. Insurance issued on a claims-made basis and completed operations insurance shall be maintained for 2 years after acceptance and evidence of coverage shall be furnished to the OPSB yearly.

D.

The insurer’s cost of providing the insured’s a defense and appeal, including attorney fees, shall be supplementary and shall not be included as part of the policy limits, but shall remain the insurer’s separate responsibility. If any of the Contractor’s sureties or insurers is declared bankrupt or placed into receivership, ceases to meet any of the requirements of the Contract Documents or its license to do business in the State of Louisiana is revoked or expires, the Contractor shall meet the requirements of the contract documents.

E.

Certificates of insurance evidencing that the requirements of paragraph B have been met shall be furnished to OPSB before work is commenced with respect to performance under this Contract. In addition to the certificate of insurance, a copy of all required endorsements will be required as proof of the coverage placement. The insurance required pursuant to the provisions of this clause shall be in such form and for such

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periods of time as OPSB may require or approve, and with insurers approved by OPSB. Provisions shall be made for 30 days advance written notice by mail to OPSB of change in or cancellation of such insurance.

F.

In the event the CONTRACTOR fails to furnish such certificates prior to the commencing of work or to continue to maintain such insurance during the performance of the Contract OPSB shall have the right to withhold any payments or partial payments required to be made under this Contract; and shall have the right to continue withholding any or all of said payments so long as the CONTRACTOR has not complied with the requirements of this clause.

EVALUATION CRITERIA Each proposal will be reviewed by a selection committee to determine if the proposal is in compliance with the RFP as outlined in the specifications. Upon determination of compliance of ALL proposal specifications, the proposal(s) deemed to be the most responsive and responsible will be evaluated based on the following:

Criteria A. B. C. D.

E. F. G.

Prior experience evaluating high quality charter school applications for urban school districts Familiarity with, and experience in evaluating charter school applications for Orleans Parish and the State of Louisiana Qualifications of the firms’ primary personnel assigned to the project Participation by Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (NOTE: OPSB offers reciprocity to out of state applicants partnering with out-of-state DBEs) Participation by individuals or businesses domiciled in Orleans Parish Cost of Services Letters of Reference Total points possible

Potential Points 0 – 25 0 – 20 0 – 15 0 – 15

0–5 0 – 15 0–5 100

TERM OF CONTRACT The contract shall be for an initial one (1) year period with the option to extend the contract for three (3) additional one (1) year periods, subject to OPSB approval.

This Request for Proposals states that "assuming mutual satisfaction, the contract may be renewed for additional periods". Please include as a section of the proposal the terms under which the contractor would be willing to renew for each of three subsequent one (1) year periods.

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Orleans Parish School Board Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program Professional Services Materials and Supplies Overview and Administrative Procedures The Orleans Parish School Board (OPSB) would like to offer firms exciting business opportunities in Professional Services, Construction, and Goods and Services through its Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program. The DBE program’s policy intent is to assist disadvantaged businesses to attain a competitive edge and grow by providing equal access to contracts and procurement opportunities in the OPSB system.

Certification The OPSB is not conducting an independent certification process at this time. To be qualified as a DBE for OPSB contracts, a firm must be certified as a DBE by the Louisiana Unified Certification Program (LUCP) or any of the following five (5) agencies conducting DBE certification within the City of New Orleans. These five (5) are: The City of New Orleans, Sewage and Water Board of New Orleans, New Orleans Aviation Board, Housing Authority of New Orleans, New Orleans Regional Transit Authority (RTA) Outreach In recruiting potential Economically Disadvantaged Businesses part of our outreach efforts consist of reviewing the City of New Orleans SLDBE list which is updated periodically. Also by participating in trade shows/seminars pertinent to the services requested. During these seminars/trade shows we will distribute programmatic literature to hundreds of individuals and interact with them on a one-toone basis. Additionally, our DBE program will attend all programs sponsored by government and private entities where opportunities to network are maximized.

Other outreach efforts include: • Conducting monthly vendor assistance meetings for potential clients as necessary • Conducting one-on-one vendor assistance meetings for potential clients as necessary Good Faith Efforts A Bidder’s compliance with the requirement to make Good Faith Efforts to locate and engage the services of DBE businesses in connection with the Project shall be a matter of Bidder responsiveness. The Bidder can demonstrate that it has complied with the requirement by certifying to the DBE Executive Director or his/her designee in writing, that as of the date of the bid submittal:

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(i) the Bidder has selected and engaged the services of DBEs, in which case the certification shall include: (a) the names and addresses of those enterprises engaged by the Bidder (b) the value of the subcontract and (c) a description of the work on the Project to be performed by such firm(s) and/or individuals, or (ii) if despite the Bidder’s Good Faith Efforts, the Bidder was not able to select and engage the services of such enterprises, in which case the Bidder shall include in its written certification the following: (a) affirmation that, prior to determining that it was unable to locate DBEs, the bidder consulted business registries including those identified by the School District; (b) affirmation that the bidder attended any pre-bid meeting scheduled to inform DBEs of subcontracting opportunities; (c) a copy of the written notifications sent to DBEs soliciting their interest in being a subcontractor or supplier on the Project; (d) the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of DBEs contacted, the date of such contact and the date set for receipt of bids from those businesses; (e) a copy of the information or a description of the information provided to DBEs regarding the plans and specifications for the work proposed to be subcontracted and how that information could be accessed; (f) a statement from the Bidder explaining why any DBEs contacted by bidder were not engaged Upon the Bidders application for waiver of the DBE goals, based on the above circumstances, the DBE Executive Director and Committee shall determine whether or not the bidder satisfied the good faith effort and shall make the appropriate recommendation.

Upon written request of the DBE Executive Director, the bidder will attend a meeting of the Orleans Parish School Board to discuss the specific measures the Bidder has utilized in undertaking the Bidder’s Good Faith Efforts.

Calculations 1. DBE participation will be counted toward meeting the goals as follows: a. The total dollar value of a direct contract or subcontract or indirect subcontract awarded to a certified DBE will be counted toward the applicable goal.

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b. In the case of a joint venture, the portion of the total dollar value of the contract equal to the percentage of the ownership and control of the DBE in the joint venture will be counted toward the applicable goal. c. Only DBEs that perform a commercially useful function in the work of a contract or subcontract or indirect subcontract will be counted toward the DBE goals.

A DBE is considered to perform a commercially useful function when it is responsible for execution of a distinct element of work of a contract or subcontract and carries out its responsibilities by performing, managing, and supervising the work involved. If a DBE contractor subcontracts a significantly greater portion of the work of the contract than would be expected on the basis of normal industry practices, the DBE is presumed not to be performing a commercially useful function. The DBE may present evidence to rebut this presumption. d. The total dollar value of materials and supplies obtained from DBE suppliers and manufacturers will be counted toward DBE goals if the DBE assumes the actual and contractual responsibility for the provision of the materials and supplies. e. OPSB through the DBE Executive Director will review the contractor’s DBE involvement efforts throughout contract performance. Such review will include but will not be limited to, the contractor’s and the DBE’s quarterly statements of income from the District which shall document the portion of said income paid to DBE. The Contractor agrees to supply copies of any documentation the District requires in order to complete such a review.

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Procurement Management As a result of our procurement management process, several activities are conducted on a monthly basis: • Reviewing other DBE agency's certified listings, matching their capabilities to upcoming contracts and encouraging these DBE businesses to seek recertification to update their certification status in order to be eligible for the Orleans Parish School Board DBE participation.

• Advise certified DBE vendors about bidding opportunities by submittal of written correspondence to these businesses • Providing program information on the Orleans Parish School Board's website and other compliance enforcement forms for the vendors.

• Attend and participate in the Staff Contract Review Committee meetings DBE Committee

The DBE Committee is responsible for setting the DBE participation goal for each project. The specific goal will be set on a project by project basis. Upon receipt of all information relative to and closing of the bid process the DBE Committee consisting of the DBE Executive Director, the Purchasing/Ancillary Services Director and the Head of the Department seeking the Procurement and in the case of Capital Projects the Executive Director of Operations shall then make a recommendation to the Superintendent as to whether the lowest bidder/respondent has agreed to satisfy the DBE contract goal or if not has demonstrated satisfactory good faith efforts to satisfy the DBE contract goal. In determining the percentage of participation by certified DBEs the DBE Committee shall consider the following: • The type or nature of the work required under the contract • The estimated dollar amount of the contract • The availability of subcontractors for the particular project • Whether the items of work have been broken down to the smallest reasonable components to facilitate DBE participation goal up to 35% (Thirty Five Percent) pursuant to the Board’s policy (the goal will be set on a project by project basis)

Involvement in Bid Process The DBE Program is responsible for the following bid process: • Consult with the departmental representative on each contract to ensure that every item of work has been broken down to the smallest reasonable components to facilitate DBE participation.

• Attend pre-bid conferences and offer instruction, and clarification on DBE bid specifications procurement policy, and procedures for sub-contracting.

• Answer questions posed by prime contractors at pre-bid conferences relative to DBE issues.

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• Provide written responses to detailed questions posed by prime contractors on DBE issues.

• Consult with Legal Department before releasing responses, as they may have legal considerations • Review participation summary sheets to determine if the percentage and DBE dollar amount of subcontract work reported is consistent with established goals.

• Review DBE vendor listing to determine if DBE firm listed on participation summary sheet is certified to perform required work.

• Verify DBEs submitted responses which indicate that they were not interested in pursuing work with prime contractors.

• Make presentations to appropriate committees and full Board on bid disputes and other DBE participation concerns.

• Provide signed affidavits to Legal Department in instances where litigation is required in bid disputes.

• Participate as witnesses in depositions and court cases involving bid disputes.

Monitoring After contracts are awarded and work has begun the DBE Office through the Executive Director monitors actual utilization of DBEs. This process is carried out by utilizing the following: • Review Board Reports for approved names of prime contractors, DBE subcontractors percentage of participation and areas of work to be performed • Advise prime contractors in writing through the appropriate forms provided that the percentage and dollar amount of work to be performed on each contract, that any changes in DBE subcontractors will require prior DBE Office approval and that quarterly report forms on the status of contract expenditures will be submitted • Advise DBE subcontractors in writing as to which prime contractor will be utilizing that firm, the dollar amount of participation, percentage of participation and notification that any changes in acceptances of the subcontract should be reported immediately to the DBE office • Advise prime contractors of the need to complete quarterly compliance report two (2) weeks before due date • Review quarterly compliance reports for instances of non-compliance • Make follow-up phone calls to prime contractors to determine why participation is not in compliance

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• Schedule meetings with both prime contractors and DBE subcontractors in instances of noncompliance or where problems are evident • Send follow up correspondence detailing non-compliance and penalties for same • Take required action in instances of fronting and non-compliance

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Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Office DBE FORM 1 DISADVANTAGE BUSINESS ENTERPRISE (DBE) RESPONSIVENESS FORM

RFP/RFQ/P.O./Bid/Solicitation/Other # ____________________ Bidder/Respondent______________________________________ Project Description____________________________________________________________________________________________ FOR BIDS: THIS COMPLETED FORM SHOULD BE FURNISHED TO THE OFFICE OF PURCHASING BY THE LOWEST BIDDER WITHIN TEN (10) DAYS OF THE BID OPENING. FAILURE TO COMPLETE THIS FORM PROPERLY MAY CONSTITUTE THE BID/OFFER AS BEING NON-RESPONSIVE AND SUFFICIENT CAUSE FOR REJECTION. FOR RFPS/RFQS: THIS COMPLETED FORM SHOULD BE FURNISHED TO THE OPSB-DBE OFFICE THROUGH THE OFFICE OF PURCHASING WITH YOUR PROPOSAL. FAILURE TO COMPLETE THIS FORM PROPERLY MAY CONSTITUTE THE BID/OFFER AS BEING NON-RESPONSIVE AND SUFFICIENT CAUSE FOR REJECTION.

The undersigned bidder/respondent has satisfied the requirements of the bid specifications for the above-referenced Orleans Parish School Board project in the following manner.

Please check the appropriate space:

 The bidder/respondent is committed to achieving a minimum of ________% DBE utilization on this contract.  The bidder/respondent is unable to meet the DBE goal, but is committing to a minimum of ________% DBE utilization on this project and is submitting evidence of good faith efforts to achieve DBE participation on DBE Form-2 and DBE Form 2(A).

Name of Bidder/Respondent Firm: ___________________________________________________________________________ Telephone: ____________________ Fax: ___________________ E-Mail: ________________________________________ By: _______________________________________________________ , ____________________________ (Signature of bidder's/respondent's authorized representative) (Title)

_____/_____/______ (Date)

THE BIDDER/RESPONDENT IS COMMITTED TO UTILIZING DBE PARTICIPATION ON THE PROJECT IN THE FOLLOWING MANNER COMPLETED BY BIDDER: The bidder/respondent is committed to utilizing the DBE FIRM NAMED BELOW for the Scope of Work as described below. The estimated dollar value of the scope of work is $________________________ or _______% of the total dollar value of the contract.

Use DBE Form-1(A) DBE Responsiveness- Additional DBEs if you are utilizing more than one (1) DBE firm to achieve the DBE participation percentage on the project.

Name of DBE Firm: ____________________________________________________________________________________ DBE Firm Owner or Contact: ____________________________________________________________________________ Telephone: ____________________ Fax: ___________________ E-Mail: ________________________________________

DBE TYPE:  SLDBE CERTIFIED;  LAUCP DBE CERTIFIED

 SCOPE OF WORK ATTACHED or describe the work to be performed by the DBE firm. ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

COMPLETED BY DBE FIRM: DBE AFFIRMATION. The above-named DBE firm affirms that it will perform the SCOPE OF WORK on of the contract for the estimated dollar value or contract percentage as stated above.

By: _______________________________________________________ , ____________________________ (Signature of DBE firm's owner/authorized representative) (Title)

_____/_____/______ (Date)

If the bidder/respondent does not receive award of the prime contract, any and all representations in this form shall be null and void.

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Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Office DBE FORM 1(A) DISADVANTAGE BUSINESS ENTERPRISE (DBE) RESPONSIVENESS ADDITIONAL DBE(S) FORM

RFP/RFQ/P.O./Bid/Solicitation/Other # ____________________ Bidder/Respondent______________________________________ Project Description____________________________________________________________________________________________ FOR BIDS: THIS COMPLETED FORM SHOULD BE FURNISHED TO THE OFFICE OF PURCHASING BY THE LOWEST BIDDER WITHIN TEN (10) DAYS OF THE BID OPENING. FAILURE TO COMPLETE THIS FORM PROPERLY MAY CONSTITUTE THE BID/OFFER AS BEING NON-RESPONSIVE AND SUFFICIENT CAUSE FOR REJECTION. FOR RFPS/RFQS: THIS COMPLETED FORM SHOULD BE FURNISHED TO THE OPSB-DBE OFFICE THROUGH THE OFFICE OF PURCHASING WITH YOUR PROPOSAL. FAILURE TO COMPLETE THIS FORM PROPERLY MAY CONSTITUTE THE BID/OFFER AS BEING NON-RESPONSIVE AND SUFFICIENT CAUSE FOR REJECTION.

THE BIDDER/RESPONDENT IS COMMITTED TO UTILIZING DBE PARTICIPATION ON THE PROJECT IN THE FOLLOWING MANNER The bidder/respondent is committed to utilizing the DBE FIRM NAMED BELOW for the Scope of Work as described below. The estimated dollar value of the scope of work is $________________________ or _______% of the total dollar value of the contract.

Name of DBE Firm: ____________________________________________________________________________________ DBE Firm Owner or Contact: ____________________________________________________________________________ Telephone: ____________________ Fax: ___________________ E-Mail: ________________________________________

DBE TYPE:  SLDBE CERTIFIED;  LAUCP DBE CERTIFIED

 SCOPE OF WORK ATTACHED or describe the work to be performed by the DBE firm. ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

COMPLETED BY DBE FIRM-1: DBE AFFIRMATION: The above-named DBE firm affirms that it will perform the SCOPE OF WORK of the contract for the estimated dollar value or contract percentage as stated above.

By: _______________________________________________________ , ____________________________ (Signature of DBE firm's owner/authorized representative) (Title)

_____/_____/______ (Date)

The bidder/respondent is committed to utilizing the DBE FIRM NAMED BELOW for the Scope of Work as described below. The estimated dollar value of the scope of work is $________________________ or _______% of the total dollar value of the contract.

Name of DBE Firm: ____________________________________________________________________________________ DBE Firm Owner or Contact: ____________________________________________________________________________ Telephone: ____________________ Fax: ___________________ E-Mail: ________________________________________

DBE TYPE:  SLDBE CERTIFIED;  LAUCP DBE CERTIFIED

 SCOPE OF WORK ATTACHED or describe the work to be performed by the DBE firm. ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

COMPLETED BY DBE FIRM-2: DBE AFFIRMATION. The above-named DBE firm affirms that it will perform the SCOPE OF WORK on of the contract for the estimated dollar value or contract percentage as stated above.

By: _______________________________________________________ , ____________________________ (Signature of DBE firm's owner/authorized representative) (Title)

_____/_____/______ (Date)

If the bidder/respondent does not receive award of the prime contract, any and all representations in this form shall be null and void.

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DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS ENTERPRISE (DBE) EVIDENCE OF GOOD FAITH EFFORTS OPSB-DBE FORM-2

THIS COMPLETED FORM SHOULD BE RETURNED TO THE OPSB-PURCHASING OFFICE BY THE LOWEST APPARENT BIDDER WITHIN TEN (10) DAYS OF THE BID OPENING.

RFP/RFQ/P.O./Bid/Solicitation/Other # ____________________________

Current Date ______/______/_________

Project Description ___________________________________________________________________________________ BIDDER/ OFFERER (FIRM): _____________________________________________________________________________ Contact Person: ________________________________________________ Telephone: ___________________________ Address: ______________________________________________ City: _______________________________________ State ________

Zip _____________

E-Mail: _______________________________________________________

To determine whether a bidder has demonstrated good faith efforts to reach the DBE utilization goal(s) on the abovereferenced Orleans Parish School Board (OPSB) project, the DBE Office will consider, at a minimum, EVIDENCE OF GOOD FAITH EFFORTS as described in the table below.

YES ()

NO ()

EVIDENCE OF GOOD FAITH EFFORTS

PRE-BID MEETING(S): The bidder attended all pre-bid meetings scheduled by the OPSB to inform DBEs of contracting and subcontracting opportunities.

SLDBE/DBE LIST(S): The bidder utilized the OPSB DBE Office’s list or lists of certified SLDBE and/or DBE firms found on www.nola.gov, www.flymsy.com, www.swbno.org or other state/City DBE lists.

SMALL CONTRACT(S): The bidder selected specific portions of the work to be performed by DBEs in order to increase the likelihood of meeting the DBE goals (including breaking down contracts into smaller units to facilitate DBE participation).

FOLLOW-UP: The bidder followed-up initial indications of interest by DBEs by contacting those DBEs to determine with certainty if they remained interested in bidding by providing proof of same.

ADVERTISEMENT: The bidder advertised in general circulation and/or trade association publications concerning subcontracting opportunities, and allowed DBEs reasonable time to respond.

INTERNET ADVERTISING: The bidder advertised DBE and/or subcontracting opportunities on internet portals that are accessible to DBEs and/or potential subcontractors.

GOOD FAITH NEGOTIATIONS: The bidder negotiated in good faith with interested DBEs and did not reject DBEs as unqualified without sound business reasons based on a thorough investigation of their capabilities.

INFORMATION: The bidder provided interested DBEs with adequate information about the plans, specifications and requirements of the subcontract.

WRITTEN NOTICE(S): The bidder took the necessary steps to provide written notice in a manner reasonably calculated to inform DBEs of subcontracting opportunities and allowed sufficient time for them to participate effectively.

COMMUNITY RESOURCES: The bidder used the services of available community organizations, small and/or disadvantaged business assistance offices and other organizations that provided assistance in the recruitment and placement of DBE firms.

CONTRACT RECORDS: The bidder has maintained the following records for each DBE that has bid on the subcontracting opportunity: 1. Name, address, and telephone number; 2. A description of information provided by the bidder or subcontractor; and 3. A statement of whether an agreement was reached, and if not, why not, including any reasons for concluding that the DBE was unqualified to perform the job.

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BACKGROUND I.

POLICY

It is the policy of the OPSB to ensure that DBEs, as defined herein, have an equal opportunity to receive and participate in OPSB contracts. It shall also be the policy of the OPSB: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

II.

To ensure nondiscrimination in the award and administration of OPSB contracts; To create a level-playing field upon which DBEs can compete fairly for OPSB contracts; To ensure that only firms that are DBE certified are permitted to participate as DBEs; To help remove barriers to the participation of DBEs in OPSB contracts; and To assist the development of firms that can compete successfully in the market place outside the DBE Program.

DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS ENTERPRISE (DBE) GOALS UP TO THIRTY FIVE PERCENT

The OPSB establishes an overall goal up to 35% utilization of businesses that are socially and economically disadvantaged for all OPSB projects.

III.

DEFINITIONS 1.

DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS ENTERPRISE

Disadvantaged Business Enterprise or "DBE" refers to a firm that is certified through any DBE certification program recognized by OPSB as socially and economically disadvantaged.

2.

STANDARDS OF GOOD FAITH EFFORTS

The OPSB DBE office through the DBE Committee shall be responsible for determining whether the bidder has made demonstrated Good Faith Efforts to achieve the DBE goal. In order to be considered responsive to any solicitation for any OPSB contract, the bidder must, at a minimum, agree to use its Good Faith Efforts to fully comply with the DBE Program, including all reporting requirements and any specific contract goals for DBE participation. In order for OPSB to evaluate the Good Faith Efforts made by the bidder, the following minimum information is to be provided before the contract is approved for award: a)

A report of all proposals received from a joint venture of DBEs. The report shall indicate the action taken by the bidder in response to the submitted proposals that have been rejected, and the reason for rejection shall be indicated.

b) Documentation of efforts to enter into agreements with DBEs for contracted work and efforts to arrange for a joint venture, partnership or other multi-entity relationship with DBEs. c)

Documented contact with DBEs, associations, or business development organizations which disseminate information to DBEs.

d) A copy of letters sent to groups in relevant market sectors notifying them of the bidder's intent to submit a proposal to the OPSB. e)

Description of assistance provided by the bidder to DBEs: 1. Review of Request for Proposal or other documents issued by OPSB. 2. Review of the Scope of Work to be performed.

f)

Documentation of any other effort(s) undertaken by the bidder to encourage the participation of DBEs.

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g)

Overall operation of the bidder may be considered in evaluating the Evidence of Good Faith Efforts of the bidder to comply with the goals and intent of the disadvantaged business enterprise goals for the OPSB.

h) Any other documentation to demonstrate Evidence of Good Faith Efforts to satisfy the objectives outlined above.

IV.

ASSISTANCE

You may contact the Orleans Parish School Board’s Disadvantaged Business Enterprise office for assistance with completing this or any other DBE form or document. All prime contractors are encouraged to use the following DBE lists: City of New Orleans, Sewage and Water Board of New Orleans, New Orleans Armstrong International Airport, Housing Authority of New Orleans, New Orleans Regional Transit Authority (RTA) and the State Department of Transportation (DOTD) DBE central registry list. You may also contact the OPSB DBE office for assistance in identifying available, capable, and approved DBE firms.

V.

CONTACT US Orleans Parish School Board DBE Office Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program 3520 General DeGaulle Drive, Suite 5055 New Orleans, LA 70114 (504) 304-5584 Office (504) 390-7963 Mobile

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DISADVANTAGE BUSINESS ENTERPRISE (DBE) MONTHLY DBE UTILIZATION/PARTICIPATION REPORT DBE FORM 3:

RFP/RFQ/Bid/P.O./Solicitation/Other # ______________________ Project Description (Name) _______________________________________________________________ Contractor/Vendor Firm ______________________________________________________

DBE Participation Goal __________

THE COMPLETED FORM SHOULD BE RETURNED TO THE OPSB-DBE OFFICE WITHIN SEVEN (7) DAYS OF THE END OF EACH MONTH DURING THE CONTRACT PERIOD. FAILURE TO SUBMIT THIS FORM MAY CONSTITUTE NON-COMPLIANCE WITH THE DBE CONTRACT SPECIFICATIONS AND MAY BE SUFFICIENT CAUSE FOR CANCELLATION OF THE CONTRACT.

Name, Address and Type of DBE Certified Firm

Submitted by:

Primary Contact Person (Name/Telephone)

_____________________________________________ Print Name of Owner or Officer

RFP 14-0023, Types 1 and 3 Charter Applications Review

Scope of Work Performed (Attach scope/schedule if you need additional space)

_______________________________________________ Signature Date

Page _______ of _______

Use additional forms if necessary

Dollar Amount of DBE Component

Percentage of Total Bid/Proposal

______/______/________

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DISADVANTAGE BUSINESS ENTERPRISE (DBE) DBE FIRM CONTACTED FORM EVIDENCE OF GOOD FAITH EFFORTS OPSB-DBE FORM-2 (A) PAGE ______ OF _______ FOR BIDS/RFP/RFQ: THIS COMPLETED FORM SHOULD BE RETURNED TO THE OPSB-PURCHASING OFFICE BY THE APPARENT LOWEST BIDDER WITHIN TEN (10) DAYS OF THE BID OPENING. FAILURE TO COMPLETE THIS FORM PROPERLY MAY CAUSE THE BID TO BE NON-RESPONSIVE AND SUFFICIENT CAUSE FOR REJECTION.

RFP/RFQ/P.O./Bid/Solicitation/Other # ____________________ Bidder/Respondent______________________________________ Project Description____________________________________________________________________________________________

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DISADVANTAGE BUSINESS ENTERPRISE (DBE) COMPLAINT FORM OPSB-DBE FORM-4 (OVERVIEW)

In an effort to improve oversight, accountability, and compliance on the Orleans Parish School Board’s procurements, the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Office facilitates the reporting of complaints and allegations of wrongdoing ("complaints") against 1 the Orleans Parish School Board’s Contractors . Complaints that may be reported include, but are not limited to: • • •

• • • • • • • • • • •

Contract, procurement, and grant fraud Non-compliance with DBE participation goals Environmental, health, and safety violations Racial, sexual, or other alleged discriminatory behavior Slow payments by the Orleans Parish School Board.

Slow payments prime contractor to a subcontractor Computer crimes Product substitution and suspect/counterfeit parts Bribery, kickbacks, and gratuities False statements and/or false claims Conflicts of interest and ethics violations Theft and/or abuse of government property Violation(s) of criminal or civil law by any the Orleans Parish School Board contractor Other violations of City, State, or Federal laws and regulations

Complainants are encouraged to provide relevant and specific details of their complaint including, but not limited to: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

The identity of the person, company, or organization that is the subject of the complaint; Relevant and specific details of the complaint; The City facility, department, contract, or program affected by the complaint; The contract number, contract description, or other identifying information related to the complaint; The date(s) of the alleged infraction(s) How the complainant is aware of the alleged impropriety; The identities of potential witnesses; and Any additional supporting documentation or relevant information regarding the complaint.

Complaints may be reported by the Orleans Parish School Board employees, contractors, or the general public. Complaints may be filed via e-mail 24 hours a day, in person Monday through Friday between 8am and 4:30.pm, or by mail. Complaints should be addressed to the OPSB-DBE Program Executive Director. All formal complaints must be made in writing. Complaints with limited specificity or merit may be held in abeyance until further, specific details are reported. Upon receipt of a specific complaint, the OPSBDBE Program Executive Director may take any one or more of the following actions: 1.

2.

3.

4.

Open an investigation or review of the complaint; Report the matter to the OPSB Superintendent; Report the matter to the Office of the State Legislative Auditor Report the matter to the appropriate law enforcement.

Individuals who file a complaint are not required to identify themselves. However, persons who file complaints are encouraged to identify themselves in the event additional questions arise during an investigation.

Confidentiality The OPSB-DBE Office will protect the identity of complainants to the maximum extent possible by law. Employees who report allegations may specifically request confidentiality.

1

Contractors include construction contractors, professional services contractors, and non-professional services contractors, and certified DBE contractors.

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DISADVANTAGE BUSINESS ENTERPRISE (DBE) DBE COMPLAINT FORM OPSB-DBE FORM-4

RFP/RFQ/P.O./Bid/Solicitation/Other # ___________________________ Project Description____________________________________________________________________________________________

Check one or more box: 

Contract, procurement, and grant fraud



Bribery, kickbacks, and gratuities



Non-compliance with DBE participation goals



False statements and/or false claims



Environment, health, and safety violations



Conflicts of interest and ethics violations



Racial, sexual, or other alleged discriminatory behavior



Theft and/or abuse of government property



Slow payments by the OPSB



Violation(s) of criminal or civil law by OPSB’s contractor



Slow payments prime contractor to a subcontractor



Other violations of City, State, or Federal laws and



Computer crimes



Product substitution and suspect/counterfeit parts

regulations

Please provide relevant and specific details of your complaint and/or allegation of wrongdoing below. If you have documents to support your complaint or allegation of wrongdoing, attach them to this document. If you need additional space please use a separate page and attach it to this document. ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Complainant (Name and/or Firm): __________________________________________________________________________________ Address: _________________________________________________________ City ____________________ State _____ Zip ______ Telephone: ____________________ Fax: ___________________ E-Mail: ________________________________________ By: _______________________________________________ ________________________________________ (Signature) (Title)

_____/_____/______ (Date)

Office Use Only Date received by OPSB

____/____/____

Received by

_____________ (Initials)

Initial Action Taken on

____/____/____

Initial Action Taken 

Opened an investigation or review of the complaint;



Referred the matter to the full Board;



Reported the matter to the OPSB Superintendent;



Reported the matter to law enforcement.

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DISADVANTAGE BUSINESS ENTERPRISE (DBE) GOALS REQUEST FOR WAIVER OF DBE REQUIREMENT OPSB-DBE FORM 5

BID/RFP/RFQ/P.O./Solicitation/Other# _____________________________ Current Date ______/______/_________ Project Description ________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________ I hereby request that the DBE participation goal, pursuant to the Orleans Parish School Board’s DBE Policy be waived on the above-referenced project for the following reason(s):

 See DBE Form-2: Evidence of Good Faith Efforts and supporting documentation attached. ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________________________

Requested By _______________________________________________ , ____________________________ (Signature) (Title) __________________________ Telephone

_____/_____/______ (Date)

_____________________________________ E-Mail

Reviewed By (Office of OPSB-DBE) _______________________________________________ , ____________________________ (Signature) (Title)

_____/_____/______ (Date)

Approved By (Superintendent) _______________________________________________ , ____________________________ (Signature) (Title)

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_____/_____/______ (Date)

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